Int'l Atomic Energy Agency "surprises and displeases" Israel

Ha'aretz reports on Israel's "surprise and displeasure" at a half attempt at balance by the IAEA. On past form it seemed that the IAEA was formed to bring predominantly Arab and Muslim states to their knees but in their recent report they dared to hint that they might, just might, be criticising a state that is neither Arab nor Muslim.

At the last moment, and to the surprise and displeasure of the Israeli delegation to the International Atomic Energy Agency, Article 13 was added to the resolution on Iran. It states that "...

...a solution to the Iranian issue would contribute to global nonproliferation efforts and to realizing the objective of a Middle East free of weapons of mass destruction, including their means of delivery."....In any event, even the softer version provoked complaints from the Israeli delegation. Israel is a member of the IAEA, but not the board of governors, although its representatives have observer status on that body.

Toward the end of the discussion, Israel's delegate, Israel Michaeli, said he opposed the article because the issue of Iran should not be connected to other regional issues. In any event, he said, everyone supports regions that are free of weapons of mass destruction, but it would be unacceptable and irresponsible to accept such a resolution at this stage.

Michaeli asked that his statements at the meeting, which was held in camera, not be made public because of Israel's wish to maintain a low profile at the IAEA.

I wonder why.